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Reconciling the Prophet Joseph Smith

On June 27, 1844, the Mormon Prophet, Joseph Smith, and his brother, Hyrum, were martyred. Enemies of the Church rallied together and formed an angry mob that violently broke into Carthage Jail -- where the Prophet and a few of his closest friends were being held, under the presumption of safety. Mormons honor Joseph Smith for a legacy that goes beyond his willingness to die for the cause, but also for what he accomplished in the building up of the Kingdom of God -- during his relatively short life.

Mormons revere Joseph Smith as the Prophet of the Restoration of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Some unknowingly believe that Mormons worship Joseph Smith. This is false. As I was driving to Church yesterday, I found myself pondering over what I wanted to write about, in regard to Joseph Smith and his martyrdom. I couldn't help but consider this misunderstanding...

I can honestly say that I cannot ever remember, previously, a circumstance where Joseph Smith was on my mind as I entered the chapel on a Sunday.

When I attend services each week my thoughts are turned to God, who I do worship and His Son, who has made my Salvation possible. I clearly understand that Joseph Smith was the instrument that God utilized to bring about His work. I believe that for most Mormons, there is no confusion on this point.

The coming forth of the Book of Mormon is, without a doubt, the most life changing substance that Joseph Smith revealed. Within the content of this book lays a promise, which the intent thereof is to bring individuals, literally, to the knowledge of God.

My own and very personal testimony of the prophet Joseph Smith, is founded in this very promise -- which is that God will verify the truth of the Book of Mormon, brought forth by His Prophet, through the power of the Holy Ghost. I recently shared that account HERE.

The current Prophet of the Mormon Church, Thomas S. Monson, had this to say about Joseph Smith:

"The Father and the Son, Jesus Christ, had appeared to Joseph Smith. The morning of the dispensation of the fulness of times had come, dispelling the darkness of the long generations of spiritual night.

"Volumes have been written concerning the life and accomplishments of Joseph Smith, but for our purposes here today perhaps a highlight or two will suffice: He was visited by the angel Moroni. He translated, from the precious plates to which he was directed, the Book of Mormon, with its new witness of Christ to all the world. He was the instrument in the hands of the Lord through whom came mighty revelations pertaining to the establishment of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In the course of his ministry he was visited by John the Baptist, Moses, Elijah, Peter, James, and John, that the Restoration of all things might be accomplished. He endured persecution; he suffered grievously, as did his followers. He trusted in God. He was true to his prophetic calling. He commenced a marvelous missionary effort to the entire world, which today brings light and truth to the souls of mankind. At length, Joseph Smith died the martyr's death."Ensign, April 1997

Some of you reading this are probably thinking... 'well, if she really knew all about that Joe Smith, she would never say such things'! I can assure you, I have. Or perhaps you think I'm simply naive? Nope. Really, I've heard and read it all. Regardless, I cannot deny the answer that I received, from the Spirit, that the Book of Mormon is true. If the Book of Mormon is true, I must then accept that Joseph Smith was called of God in these last days -- and that what he taught, as a Prophet of God, must not be taken lightly.

Gaining a testimony that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the vehicle by which God has authorized His Church to be administered, comes directly through the works of Joseph Smith. And what a blessing it is for those who embrace that living prophets are here upon the earth today.

God honors His prophets and requires that we do the same. Twice on Sunday I had the opportunity to sing a favorite Mormon hymn, "Praise to the Man", found on page number 27 of the Church hymnal -- no coincidence I'm sure. And of note, this hymn was written by W. W. Phelps.

Praise to the Man

Praise to the man who communed with Jehovah! Jesus anointed that Prophet and Seer. Blessed to open the last dispensation, Kings shall extol him, and nations revere.

Hail to the Prophet, ascended to heaven! Traitors and tyrants now fight him in vain. Mingling with Gods, he can plan for his brethren; Death cannot conquer the hero again.(Chorus)

Praise to his mem'ry, he died as a martyr; Honored and blest be his ever great name! Long shall his blood, which was shed by assassins, Plead unto heav'n while the earth lauds his fame.(Chorus)

Great is his glory and endless his priesthood. Ever and ever the keys he will hold. Faithful and true he will enter his kingdom, Crowned in the midst of the prophets of old.(Chorus)

Sacrifice brings forth the blessings of heaven; Earth must atone for the blood of that man. Wake up the world for the conflict of justice. Millions shall know "Brother Joseph" again.(Chorus)

Yes, "Millions shall know "Brother Joseph" again"! And they must. It is my testimony that all who will eventually enter into the Kingdom of God will ultimately need to reconcile with this Latter-day Prophet of God -- whom He called to usher in the dispensation of the fullness of times.

What a wonderful post. My husband and I are being baptized in about one week. We have spent nine months grappling with the lack of information and misinformation abut the church from our mainstream Christian friends and family. But, after all we've read and prayed about, we feel like you do. There is no denying the truth of that feeling after praying, that unique and overwhelming feeling of knowing the truth. I am no longer embarassed or shocked or lacking faith about Joseph Smith's divine encounter, but rather thankful, in awe, and amazed at what he experienced and the pressures he endured faithfully. Thank you again for your post. That song is one of the my kids' favorites!

Thank you! And congratulations on your upcoming baptism. Sounds like you've had quite the challenges placed before you, to get to this point. I couldn't be happier for you!

I know, there is way too much incorrect or distorted information out there, about Mormonism. You hit the nail on the head when you said you ultimately prayed about your decision. There is nothing more powerful or convincing than the witness of the Spirit. That experience literally removes all doubt. It is a gift for the honest seeker of faith.

Thanks for sharing. I'd love to hear about your baptism. I know it will be a very special day for your family.